Rangers’ intervention results in seizure of elephant tusks as cyanide scandal rocks Zimbabwe
Tulani Ngwenya
ZAMBEZI, Zimbabwe – A recent incident in Zimbabwe’s Mid-Zambezi Valley, wee rangers foiled poaching of elephants, has underscored the ongoing battle against wildlife poaching. In Katombora, in the Zambezi Valley, a swift response by Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority (Zimparks) rangers thwarted a poaching attempt, resulting in a firefight. Two suspected poachers were killed, while three others were apprehended.
“Swift action by our rangers protected wildlife in this incident,” said Zimparks spokesperson, Tinashe Farawo.
“We recovered 15 elephant tusks, a 375 rifle, and ammunition from the scene. Investigations are ongoing.”
This dramatic confrontation highlighted the relentless efforts of rangers on the frontlines against poachers who threaten Zimbabwe’s rich wildlife heritage. But there is a bigger worry that casts a shadow over this victory: the recently revealed cyanide scandal.
According to media reports, a staggering amount of cyanide, a deadly poison commonly used in mining, was discovered illegally stored in a Bulawayo warehouse. The report alleges the involvement of authorities and a Chinese businesswoman named Li Song. The amount seized a massive 40 tonnes and an additional 1.1 tonnes, raised serious questions about potential complicity and the ongoing threat to Zimbabwe’s wildlife.
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Recent reports have suggested over 300 elephants had died in the Hwange National Park alone after poachers laced watering holes and salt licks with cyanide. This readily available poison presents a terrifying new weapon for poachers, further jeopardising Zimbabwe’s elephant population.
The successful apprehension of poachers in Katombora offered a glimmer of hope, authorities said. However, the fight to protect Zimbabwe’s wildlife is far from over, analysts have warned. The authorities must act swiftly to investigate the cyanide scandal and implement stricter measures to combat poaching, ensuring the safety of these iconic animals for generations to come.
